Massive landslide closes E134 in Etne: β Massive boulders
A significant landslide in Fjæra, Etne, has closed the E134 road, causing local evacuations and damage to nearby buildings, though no injuries have been reported.
A major landslide occurred on E134 in Fjæra, Etne municipality, Vestland, blocking the road and causing concern among local authorities. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or individuals trapped under the debris, but buildings close to the landslide have suffered damage. The police responded promptly at 10:44 AM to the reports of the incident.
As the situation developed, police spokesperson Dag Steinkopf reported that people in the vicinity sought refuge in a nearby tunnel. Traffic around the affected area was rapidly diverted, with alternative routes being provided via RV13 to ensure safety for motorists. However, updates from Steinkopf indicated that the landslide continued to pose risks, with more rocks falling at around noon, leading authorities to expect a prolonged closure of the highway.
Local infrastructure officials, including those from Vegvesenet, indicated that the boulders that fell are substantial enough to obstruct the entire road. Given the severity of the conditions, there remains a lack of clarity on when the road will reopen, emphasizing the vulnerability of the region to such natural events. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges that local communities face regarding natural hazards and the importance of preparedness in dealing with emergencies.